After a redemption season in 2025, most insiders thought offensive lineman Chris Paul's market would be hotter than expected in free agency. As it turned out, he's returning to the Washington Commanders.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Commanders have re-signed Paul to a one-year deal. The financial terms of the agreement were not immediately disclosed, but it keeps Washington's starting left guard around at least through the 2026 campaign.
Paul is betting on himself. The former Tulsa standout was a breath of fresh air last season, but he was firmly on the fringes in the three seasons before that. This agreement will also give general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn a chance to see if his production surge was a flash in the pan or the start of something greater.
Chris Paul is betting on himself with short-term Commanders deal
This is a win-win for the Commanders. It crossed off another big need. Paul's pass-blocking was nothing short of exceptional when introduced into the starting lineup. His run blocking needs significant work, but this was the biggest step forward of his professional career by a considerable margin.
The Commanders still have a big question at the center position after releasing Tyler Biadasz. But with Paul surprisingly coming back to the franchise, four of their starting five offensive linemen are under contract for the 2026 campaign. That's only going to help smooth the transition into offensive coordinator David Blough's new blocking concepts.
Peters has done a tremendous job in free agency so far. The Commanders have strengthened the defense, added some intriguing pieces to the offense, and solidified depth in key positions. There is also plenty of cash remaining to spend on additional moves.
As for Paul? He likely gets a raise. More importantly, he also gets the opportunity to gain more experience in a starting position. If everything goes well, a long-term deal in Washington or elsewhere will be firmly on the agenda next time around.
Schultz reported that Paul took his time, seeing what was out there before re-signing with Washington. However, the chance to run it back alongside five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil was too tempting to ignore.
Paul's perseverance has been rewarded, albeit for one more year. Still, this keeps him in familiar surroundings with the team that drafted him. The staff already know his strengths and weaknesses, so they can attack problem areas in the hope of improved fortunes. And after an encouraging 2025 campaign, the trajectory is finally pointing up when all hope seemed lost.